2002Press

After his first solo exhibition- "Thoughts, Spirits and Reflections" - one year ago at the Atlatnis Resort, Bahamian artist Marlon Hunt is ready to unveil a second series of works.

This time the theme is Emerging Passion and the venue is the Central Bank of the Bahamas Art Gallery. Hunt, who has been painting for fifteen years and is a former winner of the Central Bank Competition, said: "the title defines exactly where I am mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. "Emerging" describes the process of evolution and transition I came through over the past sixteen years and the "Passion" connotates the intence drive and conviction I feel to produce works that describe my thoughts and convey my ideas through a system of colors and designs.

Now painting full-time, he said, "there is absolutely nothing I enjoy more than expressing my emotions on canvas."

"I have always believed (as so many famous artists have said) that the works of art they produced were always lying dormant in their specific raw material whether it is stone, wood, canvas or any other material. For me, the same applies. Before I begin any piece of work I can see to a large degree the finished product before me, sometimes crying to be released from it's imprisoned state," he said.

“I feel that with every brushstroke, every color laid and the right timing, I am able to bring to life a distinct idea, thought or experience. I see my roll in the entire process as being a facilitator, holding the power to bring to life a plain, lifeless piece of canvas, giving it the opportunity to have a voice and a character of its own.”

Over the past year, Hunt said he has been truly challenged as an artist. “My entire mode of thinking and lifestyle has been altered in many respects. Due to the unfortunate incidents of September 11th, 2001, just before my show last year my employer downsized the company. Little did I know that losing my job was actually a blessing and an opportunity in disguise. I had always envisioned myself as a world-renowned artist but never had the faith to believe that this dream could really become reality, until September, 2001. This opportunity presented itself and my thought for all of one minute was that if I was willing to give my ALL to this passion, then accomplishing this dream is possible,” said Hunt.

His new life as a professional artist is filled with many challenges and obstacles from finding venues to exhibit work, to securing sponsorship, to maintaining focus and discipline.

“The true reality of this entire journey is that to engage myself in doing what I love compels me to be true to myself and by doing this, every struggle serves to strengthen my foundation and solidity my dreams. I believe that one’s talents and gifts make room for them,” Hunt explained.

His most recent exhibition, “Emerging Passion”, is sponsored by MeesPierson (Bahamas) Limited. “MeesPierson serves as an excellent example of corporate Bahamas locking hands and promoting young aspiring Bahamians to take their dreams to a higher level. I am grateful to both MeesPierson and the Central Bank of the Bahamas for giving me the opportunity to showcase my artwork with their full vote of confidence,” said Hunt.

“I have numerous ideas for new and innovative art ventures that I plan to pursue so watch out because the best is yet to be unveiled.”

“Emerging Passion” runs September 1-15 at the Central Bank Art Gallery, Market Street.